Utility Savings Guide
Reduce your utility bills and find assistance programs to help manage electricity, gas, water, and internet costs.
Quick Win: Simple changes like adjusting your thermostat by 2-3 degrees and unplugging devices can save $10-30 per month immediately.
Energy-Efficient Habits
Simple changes that add up to big savings
Daily Habits (Save $15-25/month)
- Turn off lights when leaving rooms
- Unplug electronics when not in use
- Use natural light during the day
- Air dry clothes instead of using dryer
- Use cold water for washing clothes
Smart Usage Tips
- Run dishwasher only when full
- Use microwave for small meals
- Close curtains during hot days
- Use fans instead of AC when possible
LED Lighting Upgrade
Long-term savings through better bulbs
Cost Comparison
Incandescent Bulb
$1 bulb + $180 electricity/year
LED Bulb
$8 bulb + $30 electricity/year
Where to Start
- Replace most-used lights first
- Look for utility rebates
- Buy in bulk for better prices
- Choose warm white for living areas
Appliance Efficiency
Maximize efficiency of existing appliances
Refrigerator (25% of electric bill)
- Set temperature to 37-40°F
- Keep freezer at 0-5°F
- Clean coils every 6 months
- Don't overfill or underfill
Water Heater (18% of electric bill)
- Set temperature to 120°F
- Insulate hot water pipes
- Take shorter showers
- Fix leaky faucets immediately
Time-of-Use Savings
Save money by timing your electricity use
Peak Hours (Most Expensive)
Usually 4 PM - 9 PM weekdays
Avoid heavy usage
Off-Peak Hours (Cheapest)
Usually 10 PM - 6 AM
Best time for laundry, dishwasher
Money-Saving Schedule
- Run dishwasher after 10 PM
- Do laundry on weekends or evenings
- Charge devices overnight
- Use slow cooker instead of oven during peak hours
Potential Monthly Savings
Estimate how much you could save with these strategies
Electricity
$25-50
LED bulbs, efficient habits
Heating/Cooling
$30-80
Thermostat adjustment, sealing
Water
$15-30
Shorter showers, fix leaks
Internet/Phone
$20-60
Low-income programs, negotiation
Total Potential Savings
$90-220/month
$1,080-2,640 per year